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    • Entertainment News
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      Carnegie Hall Presents Lillie King and John Maddy Thursday, December 14

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      Carnegie Hall’s Second Stage Series continues with musical duo Lillie King and John Maddy on Thursday, December 14, at 7 p.m. in the Old Stone Room. Guests are invited to come early to Club Carnegie from 6 – 6:45 p.m. A cash bar and snacks are available.
      Lillie King has been performing since a young age, presenting concerts locally on the stage at Carnegie Hall WV, in Nashville, and throughout the region. Her infectious style of original music - along with popular favorites, paired with her infectious smile always guarantees a good time.
      John Maddy has performed everything from intimate solo piano performances to band and orchestra performances in various states. He brings originals, along with jazz and classical favorites with the right amount of pop/rock to please everyone. He keeps the audience on their toes with his own unique way of blending musical styles.
      The duo has written songs and performed together for two years in multiple bands, including Lillie and the Kingsmen and Big Shots; A Billy Joel Tribute.
      During their performances, Lillie and John pair together original pieces, pop/rock/country favorites, and holiday classics - all with a charming twist. The combination of musical styles and personal flair will bring just the right amount of fun and holiday cheer to brighten the season.
      The Second Stage Series consists of five special events that take place in the Old Stone Room located on the ground floor of the Hall. The intimate setting creates a “speak easy” vibe with an eclectic line-up of entertainment. Seating is general admission and limited.
      Tickets are $20 and may be purchased by visiting www.carnegiehallwv.org, calling 304.645.7917, or stopping by 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV.
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    • Local News
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      37th Annual Taste of Our Towns a Success for Carnegie Hall, Local Groups

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      Carnegie Hall’s 37th Annual Taste Of Our Towns (TOOT) proved once again why it is one of West Virginia’s most popular festivals.  On October 14, thousands of residents and visitors packed the streets of historic downtown Lewisburg, WV to taste food and drinks created by almost 50 regional vendors, listen to regional bands, participate in fun and educational activities in the Kids’ Zone, be entertained by street performers, and experience Carnegie Hall’s Art Block which featured Carnegie’s teaching artists selling and demonstrating their craft.
      TOOT guests enjoyed a pleasant event that improved as the day went on and raised funds for Carnegie Hall and other area nonprofits and businesses.  This year, vendors collectively grossed over $42,332 in sales. Carnegie Hall received more than $12,319 as its 30% of vendor sales.  Vendors took home nearly $25,979.
      “We had 43 local vendors, not to mention our incredible Church Street artists, set up at TOOT 2023 for the largest number of vendors we’ve had since 2014,” states Develop Manager Kit Lindsay. “Despite some questionable weather, we had a wonderful, community-forward event full of great food and happy festivalgoers!”
      Food and drink vendors included The Dawg House, Robert’s Antiques, Wellspring of Greenbrier, Renick Christian Fellowship, Stardust Café, St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, Grassroots Church, Patina, Comeback Orthopedics, FCC Co Op, Better Homes & Gardens, Blackwell’s Catering, Aggie’s – Vest, The Lunch Box, Mountain Table, Greenbrier River Watershed Association, Cowlicks Dessert Trailer, Green River Academy/Yamato Japanese Steakhouse, The Schoolhouse Hotel, Foley Orthodontics, Genesis Mountain Farm, Ascend WV, Leivasy People’s Place, Flavor Mutt, Mammy’s Fudge & Treats, WV Beef Jerky, WV Helping Hands, Seasons Place, WV Renaissance Festival, Greenbrier Valley Children’s Home Society, Aviagen Turkeys, Child & Youth Advocacy Center, Reformed Lawyer, CAMC, The Chocolate Lady, Daniel Vineyards, Davis Stuart Culinary Institute, Manic Espresso, Lewisburg Elementary School, Kitchen 304, Montwell Commons Demo Garden, Rebel’s Kitchen, The Greenbrier Sporting Club, The Greenbrier, American Beer Company, Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company, and Hawk Knob Cidery.
      Providing information and services were the WV Breastfeeding Institute (nursing station), CAMC Mobile Unit (health screening), and Greenbrier County Humane Society (Adopt a Pet).
      The TOOT “Art Block” was back and showcased Carnegie Hall’s teaching artists and educational opportunities. Live clay demonstrations were performed by teaching artists Kathy Talley (basket weaving), Luke Davis (leather working), Fiber Arts Network members (loom weaving), Jeanne Brenneman (ink and wash sketching), John Coffey (plein air water coloring), Amie Durrman (pottery), Karen Leland (felting), WV Woodturners Association members (woodturning), Sean O’Connell (raku kiln firing), Jane DeGroot (barn quilt painting), Tommye Rafes (soap making) and Theresa Filzen/Janis Peery (mosaic tiles).
      “The return and expansion of the Art Block for the second year at TOOT provided another great opportunity to showcase the variety of talented teaching artists that participate in the educational programming at Carnegie Hall,” explains Carnegie Hall Educational Director Harmony Flora.
      She continues, “For the public to be able to see our instructors doing live demonstrations like the raku firing or the woodturning projects, or a project like barn quilt painting or soap cutting is a great way to connect the process of creating art to the finished product. Many people are familiar with pottery for example, but few understand the process required to turn a lump of clay into a beautiful functional mug or bowl. Knowledge like this broadens individual understanding and appreciation of art forms and helps to spark interest and participation on a personal level. I am a visual learner myself, and it’s always exciting to meet a community member that tells me - ‘hey, I saw that at TOOT, how do I take class?’”
      The Lafayette Street Stage music was provided by Blue Twisted Steel and Dark Matters. The Carnegie Hall “stage” featured the Greenbrier River Optimistic Ukulele Players (GROUP), Glorified Dance, Encore School of Dance, and the Greenbrier East High School Spartanettes.
      2023 TOOT Street Performers included El Gleno Grande and stilt-walker Marcus Fioravante. John Wyatt and Keith Thomas were traveling musicians. 
      TOOT also featured a kid’s zone with face painting by Alana Broholm and a puppet theatre by Sharon Ginsberg. 
      The Greenbrier, Hawk Knob, Ascend WV, Robert’s Antiques, and Patina donated 100% of their proceeds to Carnegie Hall and The Greenbrier Sporting Club donated 100% less their expenses, contributing tremendously to the success of the event as a fundraiser.
      Without 2023 TOOT Sponsors the event would not be possible. The Title Sponsor for the second year was Boxell Solutions. The Mountain Transit Authority (MTA) Shuttle was made possible by The French Goat.
       
      Carnegie Hall would like to recognize following contributors:
      Volunteers from the Carnegie Hall Board of Directors, TOOT Committee, Lewisburg Rotary, Boy Scout Troop #70, West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM), as well as individuals who regularly volunteer for Carnegie Hall contributed largely to the success of the event. The Greenbrier Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau sold tickets and promoted TOOT. Special thanks to the City of Lewisburg Police, Fire & Public Works, Gillespie’s Flowers & Productions, Greenbrier Valley CVB, Greenbrier County Health Department, Greenbrier County Humane Society, Greenbrier Valley Theatre, Greenbrier Valley United Way, Lewisburg Rotary Club, Lewisburg United Methodist Church, New River Community and Technical College, Scouts BSA Troop #70, Simms Exxon, The Lewis Theatre, and WVSOM. The 2023 TOOT Committee included Jill McIntyre (Co-Chair), Jennifer Orr (Co-Chair), Mary Cole Deitz, Kit Lindsey, Sally Bray, Philip McLaughlin, Siobhan Winters, Teri Hartford, Harmony Flora, Cathy Rennard, Kim Beard, and LeeAnn Gillian.
      TOOT is made possible by the generosity and support of the community and is always held the 2nd Saturday in October. Plans for next year are already underway. To learn more about how to become a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer next year, please call (304) 645-7917 or visit www.carnegiehallwv.org. 
      Carnegie Hall is a nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala. The Hall is located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, WV.  For more information, please call 304.645.7917 or visit www.carnegiehallwv.org.
       
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    • Government News
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      Sheriff's Department Issues Scam Alert

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      Greetings to all on this Thanksgiving eve!
      We have been made aware of variations of a scam that seems to be in full force today against several Greenbrier County residents.
      We have had several reports of citizens receiving phone calls from individuals stating that they are members of the Greenbrier County Sheriff's Office and are using names of current and past Sheriff's Office employees. During these phone calls, the individuals are requesting money and stating that arrest warrants have been issued and that court dates have been missed. The individuals further state that if the money isn't paid, the person they are calling will be arrested.
      We assure you that you WILL NOT receive a call of this type from legitimate members of the Sheriff's Office. We will never contact you requesting payment be made to us or you'll be arrested. Do not fall for this scam!
      If you are contacted by an individual trying to make you a victim of this scam, do not provide any information and hang up the phone immediately.

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    • Politics & Opinions
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      Attorney General Patrick Morrissey Wishes West Virginians a Happy Thanksgiving

      GreenbrierJ

      In a message to the citizens of West Virginia, Attorney General Patrick Morrissey extended warm wishes for a joyous Thanksgiving. Embracing the spirit of the season, Morrissey emphasized the importance of gratitude and reflection during this special time of the year.
      "Hey, it's Attorney General Patrick Morrissey coming to you today, let's say happy Thanksgiving to every West Virginian," began Morrissey, setting a warm and festive tone for his message. Acknowledging the beauty of the season, he expressed his deep sense of fortune and encouraged fellow West Virginians to take a moment to appreciate the blessings that surround them.
      "This is a beautiful time of year, and I feel very fortunate. This is a time that we celebrate faith. We celebrate fellowship, and we celebrate family," Morrissey remarked, underlining the significance of Thanksgiving as a time for spiritual reflection, camaraderie, and spending quality moments with loved ones.
      Sharing his personal affinity for Thanksgiving, Morrissey revealed, "I've always been thankful to take part in Thanksgiving rituals. It's my favorite holiday because whatever the state of affairs in your life, you gotta be thankful." He stressed the importance of gratitude regardless of individual circumstances, highlighting the notion that there is always something to be thankful for.
      Expressing a sense of humility, Morrissey acknowledged the abundant gifts bestowed upon individuals by a higher power. "Everything around you, God has bestowed us with great gifts. And if we're all here today, we should give thanks to him, the Lord our God," he declared, encouraging a collective sense of appreciation for the blessings that unite the community.
      As he spent quality time with his own family in the Mountain State, Morrissey conveyed his gratitude for being in such a remarkable place. "I'm right here in the Mountain State. I couldn't think of a better place to be. God bless you all. West Virginia. God bless our country, and I look forward to seeing you out on the road."
      Closing his message with warm wishes for the Thanksgiving feast, Morrissey extended a cheerful "Happy Turkey Day" and encouraged everyone to relish the delights of the holiday meal. "May you enjoy the great Turkey, the white onions, the mashed potatoes, and everything else that comes with it," he concluded, spreading joy and camaraderie as West Virginians gathered to celebrate this special day of gratitude and togetherness.
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    • Health News
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      Wildfires Blanket Greenbrier County in Smoke, Residents Urged to Protect Indoor Air Quality

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      Brush and wildfires wreaking havoc in both West Virginia and Virginia have led to a concerning situation in Greenbrier County as dense smoke blankets the region. While the fires continue to burn out of control, residents are grappling with the health implications of inhaling smoke, with particular concern for vulnerable populations such as those with respiratory issues, infants, and individuals relying on oxygen or inhalers for asthma treatment.
      Inhaling smoke poses various health risks, including burning eyes, runny noses, sneezing, and heightened allergies. For families wondering how to safeguard their homes against the smoke infiltrating indoor spaces, experts suggest considering air purifiers as a viable solution.
      Investing in an air purifier can effectively remove smoke particles from the air, providing a crucial defense against the harmful effects of prolonged exposure. One alternative, for those with existing furnace or HVAC systems, is to upgrade furnace filters to a higher-rated option specifically designed to filter out smoke particles. However, users should be cautious as advanced filters can reduce air circulation and impact the efficiency of the furnace, making them more suitable as a temporary solution.
      When selecting an air purification unit, experts recommend opting for devices with replaceable filters over washable filters, as the latter may not effectively capture smaller particles. HEPA filters, known for their high efficiency in trapping particles, are a preferred choice for combating smoke-related issues. Quality carbon filters, often serving as pre-filters, play a vital role in eliminating both smoke and odors from the air.
      Currently, the Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier with True HEPA stands out as one of the best-selling units on Amazon, boasting more than 36,000 reviews. Experts suggest this unit for its effectiveness in removing smoke particles from indoor air. To learn more about the Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier, a video is attached for reference. For those ready to take action, a convenient link is provided below for easy purchase. https://www.amazon.com/Winix-5500-2-Purifier-PlasmaWave-Reducing/dp/B01D8DAYII?th=1
      As the wildfires continue to impact air quality in the region, taking proactive measures to safeguard indoor air quality becomes increasingly important. Residents are urged to consider these recommendations to create a healthier living environment for themselves and their families during these challenging times. 
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    • Local News
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      Renick Community Center Extends Helping Hand with Non-Food Pantry and Giveaways

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      The Renick Community Center opened its doors today to host a non-food pantry event, offering an array of essential items, clothing, and toys for families in need. The event aimed to provide support to those facing various challenges, ensuring that basic necessities and a bit of holiday cheer reach those who need it most.
      The non-food pantry featured an assortment of household essentials, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, soap, cleaning supplies, blankets, gloves, and more. The generosity displayed at the Renick Community Center reflects the community's commitment to aiding families grappling with difficulties, irrespective of the reasons behind their struggles.
      The Renick Community Center has not stopped at the non-food pantry event. They have scheduled several upcoming events to further uplift the community spirit. The next event in line is a free community dinner, slated to be held at Mt. Hermon Methodist Church on December 2nd, running from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This dinner provides an opportunity for community members to come together, share a meal, and strengthen the bonds that make Renick a tight-knit community.
      Following the community dinner, the Renick Park will come alive with festive spirit during the "Christmas in the Park" event on December 9th at 6:00 PM. This lively event promises an abundance of giveaways, especially tailored for the little ones in the community. From toys to surprises, the Christmas in the Park event seeks to spread joy and create lasting memories for families during the holiday season.
      Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars and join these upcoming events to celebrate community, share in the holiday spirit, and extend a helping hand to those who may need it most. The Renick Community Center and its partners are dedicated to fostering a sense of togetherness, compassion, and support throughout the community.
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    • State News
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      Bucks Season Kicks Off Today

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      Today marks the commencement of West Virginia's highly anticipated buck firearms season, a cherished tradition that unites generations in their love for the outdoors. Governor Jim Justice, an avid supporter of the state's hunting culture, reminded hunters to secure their licenses and deer stamps before venturing into the woods for the next two weeks.
      "West Virginia’s buck firearms season is a cherished tradition that spans generations and unites us in our love for the outdoors,” Gov. Justice said. "I want to encourage every hunter, whether you’re a resident or non-resident, to get into the woods and enjoy a hunting adventure and experience all of the goodness and beauty of West Virginia."
      The buck firearms season will run until December 3, providing ample opportunities for residents and non-residents alike to partake in the state's most popular hunting season. Those seeking an additional buck must purchase a Class RG or Class RRG stamp before 11:59 p.m. on November 19. Licenses and stamps are available for purchase online at WVhunt.com or through authorized license retailers.
      In conjunction with the hunting season, Governor Justice also announced the launch of West Virginia's third annual Big Buck Photo Contest. Hunters are invited to submit a photo featuring a buck harvested during the 2023 season along with a short account of their hunting experience. The contest, which has garnered over 2,000 submissions since its inception in 2021, opens on November 21 and accepts entries until December 22.
      “As a lifelong hunter, I want to invite everyone to participate in the West Virginia Big Buck Photo contest and enjoy our state’s incredible deer hunting opportunities,” Gov. Justice expressed. “Whether you come home with a buck or win one of these prizes, I want to encourage you to get in the woods and join the thousands of hunters who have participated in this exciting contest over the last two years and help show the world why West Virginia is one of the best places to hunt.”
      The contest includes divisions for both youth (17 and younger) and adults (18 and older), with prizes ranging from free lifetime hunting licenses to cabin stays in state forests and other exciting packages.
      Coinciding with the buck firearms season, the second split of West Virginia's antlerless deer season opens in 51 counties and runs through December 3. Hunters seeking to hunt antlerless deer can purchase Class N or Class NN stamps at any time on WVhunt.com.
      Brett McMillion, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Director, highlighted the state's abundant wildlife and effective natural resource management. Hunters are reminded to check in their game online at WVhunt.com, at authorized license agents, or by calling 1-844-WVCHECK, ensuring their DNR accounts are up to date for a smooth process.
      For specific deer regulations in each county and wildlife management area, hunters are advised to refer to the Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary, available at license agents, WVDNR district offices, and online at WVdnr.gov/hunting-regulations. The winners of the Big Buck Photo Contest will be announced in January 2024 following a random drawing and judging based on various criteria including photo composition, antler size, antler points, and the quality of the hunt narrative.
      Source: https://governor.wv.gov/News/press-releases/2023/Pages/Gov.-Justice-announces-start-of-buck-firearms-season,-return-of-Big-Buck-Photo-Contest-.aspx
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    • Local News
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      Lewisburg Gathers in Green Square for Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration

      GreenbrierJ

      Downtown Lewisburg came alive with festive cheer as the community gathered in Green Square for the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Hosted by the Lewisburg and Bloom Committee, the event marked the beginning of the holiday season and drew residents and visitors alike to the heart of the historic district.
      Mayor Beverly White welcomed the crowd with a brief address, expressing gratitude for everyone's presence at the cherished tradition. "I'm Mayor Beverly White for those that are visiting from out of town. We welcome you to our annual Lewisburg Christmas tree lighting." Mayor White shared.
      In her heartfelt remarks, Mayor White also extended warm wishes for a safe and blessed holiday season, adding, "May you all have a safe holiday, a blessed holiday, and may God continue to bless and keep all of you as my daily prayer."
      The highlight of the evening came as Mayor White initiated the countdown for the lighting of the Christmas tree. "And now we're going to count down: 10, 9, 8..." The anticipation built, and cheers erupted as the Christmas tree illuminated, casting a warm glow over Green Square.
      Following the magical moment, the square resonated with the sounds of Christmas carols. Families, friends, and neighbors gathered around the beautifully lit tree to sing together, fostering a sense of unity and holiday spirit. The Greenbrier Valley Chorale added their melodic voices, enhancing the festive atmosphere with timeless tunes of the season.
      The Lewisburg Christmas tree lighting in Green Square not only symbolized the start of the holiday season but also highlighted the unity and togetherness of the community. As the twinkling lights adorned the square, the spirit of Christmas filled the air, leaving attendees with the warmth of the season and the Mayor's heartfelt prayer resonating in their hearts.
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    • Education News
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      Carnegie Classrooms Program Travels to Summersville Middle School

      GreenbrierJ

      As part of Carnegie Classrooms and thanks to generous funding from the Nicholas County Community Foundation, Carnegie Hall’s Cosmodome, along with Teaching Artist David Buhrman, travelled to Summersville Middle School in early November to present a week of enlightening education for all students in grades 5-8.
      Carnegie Hall’s portable Cosmodome demonstrates how Earth’s spin and tilt influence the apparent motions of celestial objects we see in the sky above. Accurate simulations inside the dome help students become acquainted with the lockstep progression of the basic constellations, the changing phases of Earth’s Moon, the life cycle of stars and the significance they have played in creating the basic elements that make up living cells.
      Carnegie Classrooms are STEAM based workshops presented in the classroom that infuse the arts into multiple disciplines by making authentic connections to content standards. Led by professional teaching artists, Carnegie Classrooms encourage student understanding, higher order thinking skills, problem solving, and a deeper appreciation of the arts while helping teachers balance core curricula being studied.
      Carnegie Hall’s Cosmodome is available for public or private educational workshops that can be tailored to most age groups and time frames. For more information, contact Education Director Harmony Flora at 304 645 7917, or by email to [email protected].
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    • Local News
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      Greenbrier County Waterline Expansion Projects Public Meeting

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      County commissioners, including Tammy Tincher, Lowell Rose, and Blaine Phillips, recently convened at a public meeting to discuss the ongoing water expansion project in Greenbrier County. Led by project manager Ryan Boustany of The Thrasher Group, the meeting aimed to update the public on plans for the proposed water line expansion, expected to have a significant impact on several communities.
      The ambitious Greenbrier County #2 Public Service District Phase 2 Sam Black Church water line expansion project carries a substantial price tag of $20,230,000.00. Funding sources include the County Commission, Congressional Directed Earmarked funds, IJDC, DWTRF Principal Forgiveness, and DWTRF Loan.
      Anticipated to benefit communities such as Sam Black Church, Clintonville, Alta, and Asbury, the project also includes connecting Charmco to Rainelle. Notably, the water system will operate independently from Rainelle's existing city water, although provisions are in place for emergency water purchases if necessary.
      Despite the project's potential to impact around 400 homes, only 150 individuals have signed up so far. Attendees at the November 13th meeting, held at James Chapel United Methodist, raised questions and concerns about the proposed water line expansion. To encourage participation, individuals are required to sign a five-year agreement, committing to a minimum monthly bill of $60.39 for 3000 gallons. Project manager Ryan Boustany emphasized the potential for lower rates if more residents sign up, urging early participation to avoid a $300 tap fee.
      Discussions during the meeting highlighted the various benefits of city water access, particularly during power outages and for enhanced fire protection. Local first responders and fire department members present at the meeting assured collaboration with The Thrasher Group on fire hydrant placements, emphasizing the potential for reduced homeowners' insurance premiums with nearby hydrants.
      However, the project faces challenges, notably the hesitancy of potential participants. Some residents highlighted the pressing need for city water, describing the difficulties faced by those with non-functioning wells or water quality issues. Concerns were raised about the project's viability with only 150 sign-ups and a high estimated cost of $133,000 per connection.
      Comparisons with neighboring water systems revealed a range of rates, with Ronceverte paying $77.52, WVAW ranging from $60.00 to $77.09, and others varying between $33.08 and $77.52.
      The fate of the Greenbrier County waterline expansion project remains uncertain, with community support and participation crucial for its success. Interested individuals can watch the full meeting on YouTube at https://youtu.be/OSpJvuJoZng, and for inquiries about the project, contact Ryan Boustany via email at [email protected] or by phone at 304-343-7601. The community's decision to sign up will determine whether this essential infrastructure project thrives or falters.
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